DEAKIN RESERVE Future Directions Plan - Greater ...
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DEAKIN RESERVE
Future Directions
Plan
Contents Page No.
Introduction 1
Deakin Reserve 2
History 2
Current Management Arrangements 2
Current Use 2
Existing Infrastructure 3
Key Changes and Achievements 4
Planning and Policy Context 5
Local Context 5
State and National Context 6
Changing Community Needs 7
Community Profile 7
Participation Trends in Sport and Recreation 8
Implications for Deakin Reserve 8
Consultation with Key Stakeholders 10
Demand is High 10
Future Infrastructure Development 11
Governance and Management 12
Key Themes 13
Use is Extensive and Varied 13
Infrastructure 13
Community Expectations and Needs 14
Management 15
Planning for the Future 16
Vision 16
Guiding Principles 16
Actions and Priorities 17
Appendices 21
Appendix A: Aerial Photo of Deakin Reserve 22
Appendix B: Deakin Reserve Building Audit 2017 23
Appendix C: Status Update about recommendations from the 24
1999 Deakin Reserve Master Plan
Appendix D: Detailed Information about the Planning and Policy Context 29
Appendix E: Demographic Profile Greater Shepparton Community 33
Appendix F: Detailed Outcomes from Key Stakeholder Consultation 37Introduction
The Deakin Reserve Future Directions Plan has been developed to provide Greater Shepparton City Council with a
vision for supporting the future use, development, management, and maintenance of Deakin Reserve which
responds effectively to current and future community need.
The Plan considers the needs and expectations of the local community, Council’s priorities for improving the
liveability of the Greater Shepparton community and condition and functionality of the Reserve.
Prior investigations undertaken in the preparation of the Greater Shepparton Sport 2050 (2011) supported a
recommendation for a greenfield site development to be planned for as a replacement for some or all of the
current users of Deakin Reserve. Council is applying for funding assistance to undertake a review of the Sport
2050 and it is anticipated that such a review will provide the basis for a more informed decision on the longer
term direction for Deakin Reserve and all other Council sport and recreation facilities. The timeframe for such a
development, if determined appropriate, is likely to be beyond the planning timeframe of this document and as
such has not been specifically approached or actioned here. Council is however aware of the potential and will
respond to any opportunities that arise in the interim.
It should also be noted that the financial implications of the recommended actions have been provided at a
preliminary level. More affirmative costs will be developed in time and will therefore influence the priority and
implementation timeframes. In this context the preliminary costings of the recommendations is in the order of
$1.2m to $2.5m. While some of the actions can be delivered by in kind work and others under existing funding
arrangements the larger components requiring capital investment will be subject to detailed design and cost
estimation with implementation subject to funding.
In developing the Future Directions Plan for Deakin Reserve the following research has been undertaken:
1. A review of key planning documents to understand the strategic priorities of Greater Shepparton City
Council, State and Regional Sporting Associations, local Clubs and major event organisers
2. An assessment of the current and future profile of the Greater Shepparton community and an
assessment of sport and recreation trends, to understand how demand for and use of Deakin Reserve
may change in the future
3. Consultation with key stakeholders including the Deakin Reserve Advisory Committee, Deakin Reserve
user groups, neighbouring residents and businesses, Council officers, and State Sporting Associations
4. An audit of the existing buildings within Deakin Reserve to understand their condition, functionality and
likely lifespan.
The information gathered through this research has been used to:
1. Analyse local participation demand, to identify opportunities for servicing the needs of key sporting
groups and events who require access to Deakin Reserve
2. Identify issues and opportunities associated the high levels of use and demands for Deakin Reserve
3. Develop guiding principles to assist Council in making decisions and establishing priorities for the future
use, development, management and maintenance of Deakin Reserve
4. Identify and develop priority actions for Deakin Reserve.
1Deakin Reserve
Located on the corner of Harold, Skene and Nixon Streets in Shepparton, Deakin Reserve is Greater Shepparton’s
premier sportsground facility catering primarily for Australian Rules Football, cricket, netball, and a number of
major community festivals and events. See Appendix A for an aerial photo of Deakin Reserve.
The Reserve is categorised as a 5-star rated facility under Greater Shepparton City Council’s Parks Management
system. This rating means the Reserve is managed, developed and serviced to the highest level to support its
capacity as a Premier facility hosting regional, state and national events and sporting activities.
History
The Reserve became known as Deakin Reserve in 1949 when Shepparton City Council named the site in
commemoration of the Hon. Alfred Deakin, MP, statesman and orator. The naming of Deakin Reserve is
recognised by an ornamental brick pillar with a bronze tablet inside the main entrance.
In 1877 the Reserve was set aside by the government as a place of public recreation and over the years has served
as a venue for cycling, athletics cricket and Australian Rules Football and other sports. It has also been an
important community-gathering place for many notable public functions including welcome home celebrations to
the soldiers of World War II in 1945, and a public reception to Her Majesty the Queen in 1954.
More recently Deakin Reserve has become recognised as the City of Greater Shepparton's principal venue for
Australian Rules Football, netball and cricket. It has also played host to major sporting and community events
such as A League Soccer, Australian Legends Cricket Exhibition, Crusty Demons, AFL Diversity Girls National
Championships and AFL practice games.
A Master Plan was developed in 1999 for Deakin Reserve and this has provided important guidance about the
use, development and management of the Reserve over the past two decades.
Current Management Arrangements
Deakin Reserve has an Advisory Committee (previously a Committee of Management) which is made up of
community members and 2 Councillors. The Advisory Committee plays a key role supporting Council to plan,
develop and promote the Reserve. The Committee facilitates regular meetings with the primary users of the
Reserve, providing user groups with an opportunity to discuss issues and opportunities at the Reserve.
The Committee and user groups are made up of committed volunteers, who have worked hard to ensure the
Reserve is developed, maintained and utilised to achieve its optimum potential.
Greater Shepparton City Council provides direct management and operations of Deakin Reserve, including
maintenance, development, bookings and promotion.
Achievements over the past 20 years reflect the successful collaborative approach between the Council, the
Advisory Committee and user groups.
Current Use
The primary users of Deakin Reserve are:
Shepparton Football Netball Club
Shepparton United Football Netball Club
2 Shepparton Cricket Association
Central Park/St Brendan's Cricket Club
Girl Guides Association of Victoria
Other Major Users of the Reserve include:
Goulburn Valley Football League
Victorian Country Football League
Shepparton Junior Cricket Association
Shepparton Junior Football Association
Notre Dame Secondary College.
The Reserve has a heavy schedule of usage concentrated around the Australian Rules Football and Netball season
from March to October each year, and cricket from October to April. Each year the Reserve plays hosts to the
Preliminary and Grand Final days for the Goulburn Valley Football League which showcases the venue as
Shepparton’s premier Australian Rules Football facility. The Reserve also supports sports training and hosts events
such as car rallies, concerts, festival and cricket grand finals. The playing arena caters for more games of football
and cricket than any other venue in the Goulburn Valley.
Existing Infrastructure
Over the past 20 years, a coordinated effort and investment by user groups, the Advisory Committee (and the
previous Committee of Management), Greater Shepparton City Council and the Victorian State Government,
means that today Deakin Reserve has the capacity to host AFL, cricket, netball and a range of other sporting and
community festivals and events. Facilities include:
Turf oval - 155 metres (goal to goal) by 134 metres (wing to wing) with 5 metre run off with capacity to
host local, regional and State level sporting activity
Turf Wicket
Player shelters around the ground
Netball court – compliant with Netball Victoria dimension requirements
Clubrooms used by Shepparton Football Netball Club
Clubrooms used by Shepparton United Football Netball Club
Clubrooms used by Central Park / St Brendon’s Cricket Club
Support infrastructure including, shelters, public accessible toilets, car parking including disabled parking
bays, access roads, fencing, some storage
Grandstand providing sheltered spectator seating, Meeting room, change rooms, coaches’ boxes and
media boxes.
Covered seating area with spectator toilet facilities (Western end)
Public toilet facilities
Ticket boxes
Hot dog stand
3 Electronic scoreboard
Girl Guides Hall
Playground and passive park area including a barbecue.
Due to the heavy schedule of usage, the primary users of Deakin Reserve are required to use other venues to
support their programs and training including:
The cricket practice wickets at St Brendan’s School
Shepparton Showgrounds as an alternate football training venue
Other Council owned or managed facilities.
Council undertakes regular asset inspections on infrastructure and buildings it has management and operational
responsibility for. The assessment provides a tool for the planning of capital and major renewal investment. A
condition audit of the building infrastructure at Deakin Reserve indicates that overall, the buildings in the Reserve
are in very good condition and well maintained, however a number of the buildings do not meet DDA
requirements, nor do they meet contemporary standards and functional requirements for supporting female
participation. In addition, some of the buildings while structurally sound, detract from the overall aesthetics of
the complex because of their age, and because of changing community expectations about the quality of
infrastructure that will be provided in the precinct.
See Appendix B for a copy of the Deakin Reserve Building Audit 2017.
Key Changes and Achievements
As noted previously, a Master Plan was developed in 1999 for Deakin Reserve and this has guided the use,
development and management of the Reserve over the past two decades. Key achievements during this time
include:
An upgrade of the oval including removal of the cycling track, re-shaping the oval, construction of a
boundary fence, installation of training and AFL match standard lighting, installation of catching nets at
one end of the ground and an electronic scoreboard
Construction of a new netball court and warm up area
Construction of female change facilities
Re-development of the cricket wicket
Improvements to the amenity and ovals surrounds including, more spectator areas and shelters
developed, installation of rubberised walkways, tree planting, improved lighting, upgrade to the power
supply and entrance access
Building improvements including redevelopment of grandstand change rooms, construction of accessible
toilet facilities, and development of coaches’ boxes
Management initiatives including conducting user groups meetings, new building lease arrangements,
developing ground advertising procedures, and development ground use procedures
Attracting key events including night cricket, AFL practice matches, AFL carnival, grand finals for soccer,
cricket and AFL.
4Planning and Policy Context
Understanding the existing local, state and national policy context helps to ensure the Future Directions Plan for
Deakin Reserve considers and reflects existing priorities. A number of strategic plans and documents developed
by Greater Shepparton City Council, the Victorian State Government and Federal Government have been
reviewed to identify these priorities.
Local Context
A review of key strategic documents prepared by Council shows that Council has a clear focus upon building a
resilient, inclusive and healthy community. Improved liveability is essential to this and will be achieved through
building community capacity, providing quality community infrastructure and focusing on social inclusion. Deakin
Reserve is an important tool available to Council to improve the liveability and health and wellbeing of the
Greater Shepparton community.
Priorities Council has that are relevant to Deakin Reserve include:
Developing Shepparton as the regional sporting capital of Victoria
Valuing and supporting the economic and tourism benefits that come from attracting regional, interstate
and intrastate sporting events
Valuing, supporting and encouraging volunteering, and improving community resilience
Investing in sporting facilities, particularly where
participation is maximised
strong partnerships are formed and maintained
multiuse and a community hub approach will be implemented, and
facilities are not used exclusively by clubs.
Council’s investment in facilities will be greater where these outcomes are occurring.
Specifically, the Greater Shepparton Sport 2050 Strategy recommends that a greenfield site be considered for
development, to support the needs of Deakin Reserve user groups into the future while retaining the Reserve as a
major events space for broad community use.
In addition, and as noted above, a Master Plan was developed in 1999 for Deakin Reserve. While a number of the
actions from the Master Plan have been fully or partially completed, some remain outstanding, and consequently
continue to be raised by Council officers, the Advisory Committee and sporting clubs who use the Reserve. Key
actions that remain outstanding and will need to be considered as part of developing the Future Directions Plan
are:
Improving the turf coverage, drainage, irrigation and water supply systems
Installation of retaining walls and grassy banks to improve the useable areas of the Reserve and general
maintenance
Removal of car parking around the arena and instead using external car parking
Demolition and relocation of the public toilet facilities near the netball court
Upgrading the spectator seating and grandstand area
Develop the under grandstand to accommodate change rooms for football and cricket, along with public
toilet facilities
5 Providing improved media facilities
Construction of a new electronic scoreboard. While this occurred, the sports clubs continue to raise issues
about its location and structure.
See Appendix C for more information about the status of Recommendations from the 1999 Deakin Reserve
Master Plan.
State and National Context
At a national and state level, governments have recognised the need to understand the environment in which
sport and recreation functions, to support investment priorities and better support local communities to respond
to change. Like Greater Shepparton, State and Federal governments advocate the need to plan and develop
sustainable facilities by ensuring multi-use and maximum use, accessibility and inclusiveness and consideration of
environmental sustainable practices. State and Federal government funding program criteria reflect the need for
well-planned facilities.
Change being experienced that is supported by government research and data, includes:
Changing patterns of participation in sport and recreation with decreasing participation by adults in
organised competitive sport and increasing participation in activities with a social focus or that can be
undertaken by oneself and at a time that suits the individual eg: walking and cycling. Sports participation
by young people remains strong and female participation particularly is increasing at a rapid rate
Increased competition between codes for members, volunteers and sponsorship dollars. Communities
who work collaboratively are more likely receive support for funding compared with those do not.
An increasing need to build the capacity of sports clubs and organisations to strengthen their ability to
respond to changing participation trends, more competition accessing funding and higher expectations
about the role of clubs and sport and recreation infrastructure in strengthening the health and wellbeing
of communities.
See Appendix D for more detailed information about the planning and policy context.
6Changing Community Needs
Community Profile
Located approximately 180 kilometres north of Melbourne, Greater Shepparton covers over 2,400 square
kilometres. Shepparton is the major town centre with a series of smaller townships and rural land making up the
remainder of the municipality.
Consistent population growth is a feature of Greater Shepparton, with the population projected to increase from
65,076 in 2016 to 83,234 by 2036, however the location of the growth will be variable. The Shepparton Urban
Centre is projected to account for over 75 percent of all population growth between 2016 to 2036. The rural areas
will also experience growth, but this is much more variable with those areas located closer to the Urban Centre
projected to experience reasonable levels of growth, whereas those further away will experience minimal or very
modest growth.
The age profile of the community is projected to remain very similar between 2016 and 2036 with one third of the
population aged between 0 and 24 years and those aged 60 years or over accounting for just under one quarter
of the population. This, combined with consistent population growth (the number of people aged 0 – 24 years will
increase by between 6,500 and 7,000 people between 2016 and 2036), suggests that demand for sport and
recreation opportunities in Greater Shepparton will likely increase. This demand will be strongest in the Urban
Centre where the age profile of the community is younger, and where the most significant levels of population
growth are projected.
There are however, a number of other factors that impact upon the demand for sport and recreation
opportunities and influence an individual’s capacity to participate. These include education and income levels,
and the ethnicity and cultural background of the population. Participation rates are generally lower where
household income and education levels are low. In addition, people born in non-English speaking countries are
less likely to participate in traditional sport and recreation pursuits such as cricket, as are people from an
indigenous background.
Greater Shepparton is characterised by:
A similar proportion low and medium low household incomes compared with regional Victoria, but
proportion of low and medium low household incomes has increased a small amount from 2006
Low but increasing education levels
High and increasing levels of ethnicity, and
A significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population.
These factors suggest that intervention may be required to support some members of the community to
participate in sport and recreation activities, particularly to overcome barriers such as cost, lack of knowledge
about the benefits of participating in sport and recreation pursuits and cultural barriers.
See Appendix E for more detailed information about the profile of the Greater Shepparton Community.
7Participation Trends in Sport and Recreation
In the last two decades there have been significant changes in the leisure and recreation interests of the
Australian community and in the types of leisure and recreation opportunities available. These changes have
been driven by higher education levels, changed work and business hours, greater community affluence, a
willingness to pay for high standard experiences, insurance and litigation issues, the changed cultural mix of the
community, greater expectations of quality and professional service, a greater awareness of the benefits of
recreational involvement, and the ageing of the population.
There has been an increasing shift towards participation in non-competitive activities rather than traditional
formal sports, and increased demand for more flexible and diverse leisure pursuits rather than a commitment to a
small number of activities. This has resulted in declining participation in some traditional team and small group
sports such as tennis and lawn bowls, and a move towards non-competitive but active pursuits such as walking,
fitness / gym classes, running and cycling. This is not only impacting upon participation rates but is also impacting
upon the levels of volunteer involvement in sport and recreation clubs.
The highest rates of participation for people aged 15 and over are for walking, followed by gym / fitness activities,
followed by swimming, cycling and running, all of which are predominantly undertaken as non-organised
activities. Overall participation in sport and recreation activities is occurring across a wider period of the day and
week, with a major move to week day evening sports participation. There is also far greater diversity and variety
in the recreation opportunities available, and a growing trend for families to share recreational activities or to
pursue related activities at one venue rather than pursuing a wide range of different activities.
Generally, organised sport has been limited in its ability to offer flexible participation options, however sporting
codes have been actively working towards developing different ways to participate in traditional sporting
activities such as 20 over cricket matches, AFL X, Rock Up Netball, and Cardio Tennis. In addition, there has been a
significant focus upon increasing participation by females in organised sporting activities such as AFL and cricket.
At a national and state level, the growth in participation by women and girls in these sports has been significant
over the past three years. At a local level female participation in cricket remains low and Cricket Victoria is
working with Cricket Shepparton and the local Clubs, to change this. Locally, female participation in AFL is strong
and continuing to grow.
Other key participation trends to understand are that participation in traditional Anglo Saxon sport and recreation
pursuits such as AFL and netball is typically lower for people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and
participation rates for children and young people are typically higher than for adults, particularly in organised
sport. This means in communities with high proportions of people aged between 0 and 25 years, the rates of
participation are likely to be higher. Conversely participation in physical activity declines as people age, although
the rates of participation for people aged 65 years and over have generally been increasing.
Implications for Deakin Reserve
Declining levels of participation in organised sport, along with high levels of cultural diversity and low incomes in
the Greater Shepparton community suggest demand for formal sporting infrastructure like that offered at Deakin
Reserve, may decline or stagnate. However, the steadily increasing population in Greater Shepparton, the
consistently large proportions of children and young adults, and the increasing levels of participation in AFL and
cricket by females suggest demand for Deakin Reserve is likely to grow. This is further supported by the high and
increasing demand for access to Deakin Reserve from the clubs who currently use the Reserve.
8Redeveloped or new infrastructure may be needed to support participation in sport and recreation activities by:
Adults and older members of the community. While they are more likely to be interested in participating
in less formal activities, infrastructure such as sports grounds is still required to support their
participation.
Women and girls. The unprecedented increase in women and girls participating in sports that have
traditionally been male dominated such as AFL and cricket means that infrastructure such as female
change rooms will be required at Deakin Reserve to support female participation and ensure equity of
access for all members of the community. Clubs also need to be supported and encouraged to provide
participation opportunities for females, and this should form a key part of future planning for Deakin
Reserve.
Culturally diverse communities. Like female participation, an opportunity exists to increase participation
by people from culturally diverse backgrounds in sport and recreation activities in Greater Shepparton.
The provision of appropriate infrastructure along with participation opportunities for people from
culturally diverse backgrounds should form a key part of future planning for Deakin Reserve.
Junior participants. Locally there is strong junior participation occurring across cricket, AFL and netball.
Facilities that support this such as shortened cricket pitches, lower netball rings, small sports fields are
required. Consideration needs to be given to the role of Deakin Reserve in supporting junior participation.
Importantly, programming and community development responses are just as critical as investment in
infrastructure. Local clubs and associations making use of Deakin Reserve must have a clear focus upon providing
new and varied participation opportunities, in tandem with advocating for infrastructure improvements, and any
infrastructure improvements must be based around providing equitable access for all members of the
community.
9Consultation with Key Stakeholders
Consultation with key stakeholders has formed an important part of developing the Deakin Reserve Future
Directions Plan. Key stakeholders consulted with included:
The Deakin Reserve Advisory Committee through a series of workshops and discussions
Deakin Reserve user groups through a survey and two workshops
Council officers through workshops and discussions
Peak sporting associations including Cricket, Netball and AFL through workshops and discussions
Local residents and businesses located close to Deakin Reserve through a survey. The response to this
survey was very small and consequently was of limited value.
This consultation process has been critical in identifying the issues, opportunities and challenges for the Reserve
and its users.
Outlined below is a snapshot of what stakeholders have shared in relation to their vision for the Reserve, current
use, future development, governance and the management of the Reserve.
Demand is High
Stakeholders have unanimously indicated the Reserve is in high demand catering for training and game day
activities of two football netball clubs, a cricket club, along with major sporting events such as regional finals and
elite AFL practice matches, and other events such as car rallies, concerts and festivals. Tension between different
types of use has been acknowledged.
With only one oval and one netball court, the Reserve is unable to service the current training and game day
needs of the resident football netball clubs. The ground currently has an estimated capacity of 15 hours to 18
hours per week in winter. This means the football clubs are required to train at other venues. In addition, netball
has limited space for warming up on game days and for training. This means that not only is the Reserve unable
to meet current demand related to winter sporting activities, it is not able to meet any increased winter demand,
such as junior or female football participation.
Other issues related to high levels of use and demand include:
The significant social and financial impact for clubs of being required to use alternate venues for training.
For example, training at other venues means that providing meals after training for players is difficult.
This activity is a key part of the social activities clubs offer and is a source of revenue for the clubs.
Training at an alternate venue also means that clubs are required to pay to hire multiple grounds
The reduced access clubs have to the Reserve because of the access requirements for major events. For
example, in the lead up to an AFL practice match clubs are required to be off the ground for up to six
weeks. The clubs acknowledge however, that these types of events do provide an opportunity for Clubs to
generate income
The challenge of maintaining the Reserve as a 5-star rating venue because of the high levels of use
10 Limited car parking available in and around the ground to support the number of people accessing games
and events, however, stakeholders view addressing this issue to be a low priority.
The Advisory Committee, current user groups and peak sporting associations have indicated they have an
aspiration to retain use by local sporting clubs as a key priority at Deakin Reserve, and for the Reserve to host
major events that centre around cricket and Australian Rules Football and netball with a move away from hosting
other non-sport related events. Stakeholders are also interested in exploring opportunities for a satellite site that
can be used for training purposes during the winter months both by clubs based at Deakin Reserve, as well as
clubs from other sites across Greater Shepparton.
Interestingly, the 1999 Deakin Reserve Master Plan also raised this issue and included an action to develop an
alternate football training venue to alleviate overuse of Deakin Reserve. This occurred with an alternate venue
created at Vibert Reserve and installation of additional lighting at McGuire Oval. The existing users of Deakin
Reserve do not however, view these sites as suitable alternate training venues because of the lack of availability
of the venues, the additional costs involved in using the venues, and the lack of access to social club facilities.
Future Infrastructure Development
While stakeholders recognise the Reserve has been developed in an ad hoc manner, with individual
developments occurring in isolation, there is little interest in exploring opportunities for shared infrastructure
such as shared clubrooms and change facilities. This presents challenges in relation to securing funding
particularly from State and Federal government who have a strong emphasis upon multi-use, shared, use,
partnerships and collaboration. As noted previously, Council also has a similar focus as articulated in the Sport
2050 Strategy.
Stakeholders have indicated they believe the following infrastructure improvements should be considered as part
of the Future Directions Plan for Deakin Reserve:
Upgrading the playing facilities including additional netball court space and upgrading the oval surface to
allow it to cater more effectively for the high levels of use it receives. As noted previously, upgrading the
oval surface was a key action from the 1999 Master Plan which remains outstanding
Upgrading the support infrastructure including the media box, the scoreboard, storage, change and toilet
facilities, and the fencing. Like the oval surface, these issues were also identified in the 1999 Master Plan
Upgrading the social facilities
Improvements to the spectator infrastructure including additional seating (both around the oval and the
netball court) and increased shade. This was also identified in the 1999 Master Plan
Providing purpose-built infrastructure to house maintenance equipment
Addressing accessibility and safety across the Reserve including toilet and change facilities, vehicle and
pedestrian pathways and signage.
Stakeholders recognise the need for a staged approach to improvement works at Deakin Reserve and have
identified the following as the top three priorities they would like to see addressed:
1. Maximising use of the ground by increasing the capacity of the ground to take cater for up to 25 hours of
use per week in winter
112. Identifying opportunities for establishing a satellite site to support the training needs and possibly some
game day needs for clubs located at Deakin Reserve
3. Addressing the infrastructure needs of netball in relation to Deakin Reserve.
Governance and Management
The important role the Advisory Committee has played in the ongoing development of the Reserve has been
acknowledged by stakeholders, but it is also recognised the development of the Future Direction Plan presents an
opportunity to review the current governance structure for the Reserve.
The governance structure for Deakin Reserve differs from the arrangements Council has in place in other venues.
The governance structure for many Recreation and Sports Reserves in Greater Shepparton takes the form of
Section 86 Committee of Management which comprises user groups, Council staff and interested community
members. At Deakin Reserve the membership of the Advisory Committee is open to any interested community
member.
See Appendix G for detailed information from consultation with key stakeholders.
12Key Themes
The following section provides a summary of the key themes and finding from the background research. These
themes provide the basis for developing the future vision, actions and priorities for Deakin Reserve.
Use is Extensive and Varied
The site receives a high level of use by multiple local sporting clubs (AFL Football, cricket and netball) and for
major sporting and community events. Demand for the site as a place for major sporting and community events is
increasing, with Council actively bidding to host regional, state and national sporting events in Shepparton to
grow the local economy. Its location in the CBD and high profile within the community, means Deakin Reserve is
well positioned to host major sports events such as AFL football, soccer and rugby.
Key impacts to be considered in future planning for Deakin Reserve are:
1. The increased requirement for maintenance of both on field and off field facilities to support a high level of
use.
2. The requirement for high quality of infrastructure to support major sporting and community events.
3. That tenant sporting clubs are required to use alternate venues for training, matches and social activities
when the site is being used for major sporting and community events. This can be for weeks at a time because
of the lead times required around these events, and it can be difficult for the clubs to access sufficient
alternate training venues. This:
Reduces the capacity of clubs to generate income because they cannot access kiosk or catering facilities
at alternate venues
Compromises the social connections within the clubs because they are required to train across multiple
sites and cannot host their weekly dinners after training
Increases the number of volunteers required to support the club because they are located across multiple
sites.
Infrastructure
Generally, the building infrastructure in Deakin Reserve is considered to be in very good condition and well
maintained, however some of the buildings are not DDA compliant, and do not meet contemporary standards and
functional requirements for supporting use by female and junior participants. The old grandstand including the
change room facilities is one building that is a particular area of concern.
Other issues that will need to be considered in relation to both the building, and the sportsground and court
infrastructure at Deakin Reserve include:
Many aspects of the infrastructure do not comply with DDA or universal accessibility requirements,
particularly toilet facilities and paths of travel
Negative perceptions about the availability and poor location of car parking, including whether it is
appropriate to have car parking located within the Reserve. The 1999 Deakin Reserve Master Plan
recommended moving car parking out of the Reserve
The piecemeal approach to the development of infrastructure on the site has resulted in some gaps in
infrastructure provision, some duplication, and the poor location of other infrastructure
13 The limited footprint of the site which constrains what can be developed on the site
Infrastructure to support major events including seating and amenity for spectators, storage facilities
and lighting is limited.
Key impacts of these issues are:
1. There is poor accessibility throughout the site for people with a disability or mobility issues, and parents
with prams
2. Car parking onsite causes safety concerns for pedestrians and the accessible parking is not easily accessed
3. There is limited sharing of off field facilities by the various tenant clubs, and inequality about the standard
of facilities the clubs have access to
4. The netball court does not dry out because it is constantly in shadow, creating safety concerns, and there
is little capacity to increase or relocate the netball courts because of the limited footprint of the site and
the amount of infrastructure already on the site
5. Maintenance and capital renewal costs are increased because of having multiple facilities on site
6. Tenant clubs are required to relocate items from the site when major events are occurring, to provide
storage facilities for the events.
Community Expectations and Needs
Community expectations about the quality and accessibility of facilities and participation opportunities continues
to change. Community members reasonably expect that spaces and participation opportunities will be universally
accessible and culturally appropriate for all members of the community, particularly given the increasing levels of
diversity in the Shepparton community.
Broad sport and recreation participation trends suggest that demand for structured sports participation options
such as those offered at Deakin Reserve may decline as people become increasingly time poor and prefer more
social and informal participation options that they can undertake in their own time. However, the steady increase
in the Greater Shepparton population will drive increased demand for sports facilities such as those offered at
Deakin Reserve. In addition, the population has a relatively young age profile, and it is well documented that
participation in structured sport and recreation activities is at its highest for children, teenagers and young adults.
Further, participation by girls and women in sports such as AFL, cricket, rugby and touch football is increasing.
These factors suggest that demand for Deakin Reserve as a venue for local sports participation opportunities will
increase.
Key impacts of changing community needs and expectations to be considered are:
1. That Deakin Reserve must provide universally accessible and culturally appropriate facilities for all
members of the community. Facilities will need to be multi-use and have the capacity to be used
extensively for a wide range of purposes and for people of all abilities.
2. What the future role of Deakin Reserve will be in supporting local sports participation. There will be
increasing demand for spaces and opportunities that support local sports participation particularly by
culturally diverse communities, juniors and females. However, the existing levels of use the Reserve
receives, means it will be difficult to accommodate additional demand from local sporting clubs.
3. To ensure their future sustainability, local sports clubs and associations will need to provide social
opportunities and modified sports programming that will encourage participation by culturally diverse
14communities, juniors and females. In addition, they will require access to facilities such as shorter cricket
pitches and multiple change facilities to support participation by these groups.
Management
Deakin Reserve is directly managed by Council with support from an Advisory Committee. Council is responsible
for facility bookings, sports facility and grounds maintenance, while the clubs are responsible for the clubrooms
they use. The Advisory Committee’s role is to provide advice to Council in relation to the ongoing functioning and
performance of Deakin Reserve.
Key issues and impacts identified about the current arrangements are:
1. The Advisory Committee and the user groups have been very supportive of Deakin Reserve for a long
period of time, with the number of facility developments and events at the Reserve a reflection of this
commitment
2. Separate meetings for the Advisory Committee and user groups have resulted in gaps in communications
between the two groups and Council
3. Membership of the Advisory Committee is predominantly made up of interested community
representatives rather than user groups. This is different from other Greater Shepparton City Council
Section 86 Committees or advisory committees which generally comprise user groups, Council staff and
interested community members.
Following public exhibition, the feedback received suggested that there are no gaps in communication between
the Advisory Committee and user groups and that the current management is working well and has for quite
some time.
15Planning for the Future
In planning for the future of Deakin Reserve:
A vision has been developed reflecting the needs and aspirations of stakeholders and the fundamental
capacity of the Reserve to support local and regional sporting activities and events
A series of Guiding Principles have been developed to assist Council and stakeholders in making decisions
and establishing priorities for the Reserve, particularly when issues arise in the future which are outside
those identified through this Future Directions Plan, and
Priority Actions have been developed for the future management, use and development of the Reserve.
Vision
Deakin Reserve, the premier facility for Cricket and Australian Rules Football in Greater Shepparton supporting
both local cricket, AFL, and netball, and complimentary major regional sporting events.
Guiding Principles
The Guiding Principles have been developed in recognition that a clear policy framework is needed:
To guide the development of priority actions for this Future Directions Plan
To assist Council in making decisions about the future management, use and development of the
Reserve.
While the priority actions outlined in this Future Directions Plan will provide specific guidance about the steps to
be taken to improve the Reserve, it is recognised that the Reserve is a dynamic environment, and that new issues
will continue to emerge and need to be responded to by Council. The Guiding Principles will assist Council in
determining the priorities for the Reserve as new issues and opportunities emerge. Each decision made in relation
to the Reserve should be tested and compared against the Guiding Principles to ensure the decisions are
consistent with the policy framework. The priority actions outlined have been developed giving careful
consideration to the Guiding Principles.
The Guiding Principles are:
Consistent Governance: Management of the Reserve will be consistent with the approach Council takes
in managing other sporting facilities and open space.
Partnerships: A partnership approach will underpin the management, use and development of Deakin
Reserve. Council will actively partner with facility users and other levels of government to share funding
responsibility for the development of infrastructure.
Accessibility: Deakin Reserve will be managed, used and developed to ensure safe, equitable, quality
access for all members of the community.
Balancing Use and Quality: Decisions will seek to maximise use of the Reserve without compromising the
quality of facilities, open spaces and user experiences.
16Co-location and Multi-Use: The integration, joint use and sharing of facilities is essential and will be
actively pursued and implemented.
Diversity of Use: The management, use and development of the Reserve will focus upon supporting a
diversity of use eg: formal and informal, junior and senior, male and female, and culturally diverse use.
Primarily Open Space: Car parking and road access will be of secondary importance to the recreation,
aesthetic and sporting value of the Reserve.
Strengthening Community Capacity: Support for the organisations who use Deakin Reserve will focus
upon strengthening the capacity of user groups to be sustainable and provide opportunities for all
members of the Greater Shepparton community to participate in sporting activities.
Actions and Priorities
Integral to the Future Directions Plan is identifying the actions required to help achieve the vision for Deakin as
the premier facility for cricket and Australian Rules Football in Greater Shepparton supporting both local
cricket, AFL, and netball, and complimentary major regional sporting events.
The following pages identify the Actions and Priorities for the Future Directions Plan including the organisation
responsible for leading or implementing the action. It should be noted a responsible organisation has not been
identified for all actions, as some are dependent upon the implementation of earlier actions.
The following priority rating has been applied:
Priority 1: The highest priority with an anticipated timeframe for implementation of 1 – 2 years.
Priority 2: A medium level priority with an anticipated timeframe for implementation of 3 – 5 years.
Priority 3: A longer term priority with an anticipated timeframe for implementation of 5 – 10 years.
Ongoing: Those actions which are currently being implemented and / or will continue to be implemented
on an ongoing basis.
17Area What Description Who Timeframe
Planning Club Strategic Develop strategic plans to help strengthen the long-term sustainability of the Clubs Sporting Clubs located at 1
Plans who use Deakin Reserve. The plans should examine factors such as volunteer Deakin Reserve in
involvement, changing community needs and demands, financial sustainability, partnership with Sporting
long term location and facility needs. Associations and GSCC
Governance, Diversity of Use Through tenancy arrangements require the sporting clubs using Deakin Reserve to GSCC 1
management actively provide opportunities for participation by juniors, females and culturally
and operations diverse communities.
Maintain Deakin Ensure budget allocations support the continued maintenance of Deakin Reserve GSCC Ongoing
Reserve as a 5-star as a 5-star sports facility.
sports facility
Open facilities to Investigate the opportunity to make change facilities and toilets available for GSCC 1
casual use informal use, for example, personal trainers, people walking etc.
Shared and multi- Actively pursue opportunities to implement shared use of club room and change GSCC and Sporting Clubs 2
use facilities room facilities by the football and netball clubs and cricket clubs who make use of located at Deakin Reserve
Deakin Reserve.
Investigate In consultation with sporting clubs, examine options for an alternate training venue Greater Shepparton City 2
alternate training for clubs who use Deakin Reserve and other sportsgrounds in Greater Shepparton, Council
venue particularly during the winter season or when major external events are occurring.
Careful consideration should be given to how existing alternate venues established
by Council can be improved to better meet the needs of sporting clubs eg: Vibert
Reserve and McGuire Oval.
An alternate venue will ideally have the capacity to cater for social functions or
dinners, be affordable and provide a genuinely alternate option for sporting clubs
both from Deakin Reserve and other sites in Greater Shepparton.
18Area What Description Who Timeframe
Infrastructure Netball Construct a new second netball Court and warm up space adjacent to the current Greater Shepparton City 2
court. This will require the removal / relocation of the existing toilet facilities. Council and
Nets behind the Install nets behind the goals associated with the sportsground. Greater Shepparton City 3
sportsground goals Council
Water storage and Explore options to re-use water from change rooms and install water storage Greater Shepparton City 2
Re-use options. Council
Oval Plan for the redevelopment of the oval to allow it to support up to 25 hours of Greater Shepparton City 1
Redevelopment use during the winter months. Key elements to be considered are improvements Council
to the turf, and upgraded drainage, irrigation system and water supply options.
Car Parking Limit internal car parking and relocate the entry gate near the United Cricket Greater Shepparton City 2
facilities to enable the construction of the new netball court. Council
Facilitate and promote the use of the Showgrounds as a car parking option for Greater Shepparton City 1
major events at Deakin Reserve. Council
Public toilets and Develop public toilet and change room facilities plan to meet the contemporary Greater Shepparton City 2
change rooms needs and accessibility requirements of spectators and participants. In particular Council
the needs of people with a disability, females and people from culturally diverse
backgrounds must be addressed.
Infrastructure Improve spectator Investigate options for seating and shade around the ground. This should be Greater Shepparton City 2
seating, viewing linked with investigations about the need for improved public toilets, change Council
and shade rooms and improvements to the grandstand.
Access for All Improve paths of travel and accessibility throughout the site, particularly Greater Shepparton City 2
improvements addressing the asphalt surrounds and spectator seating options. Council
Upgrade support Specific support infrastructure to be improved includes the scoreboard and media Greater Shepparton City 3
infrastructure box. While upgraded previously, issues remain in relation to the location and Council
functionality of the existing infrastructure.
19Area What Description Who Timeframe
Infrastructure Signage Improve information and directional signage both within the Reserve and Greater Shepparton City 2
directing people to the Reserve. Council
Increase storage Provide improved storage facilities throughout the Reserve for maintenance Greater Shepparton City 2
facilities equipment, sporting club equipment and to support major events and activities Council
that are conducted at the Reserve. Opportunities for storage should be
considered not in isolation, but rather be considered as part of plans to improve
other infrastructure eg: improved spectator seating, change room facilities etc.
Events Limit the range of Major events to be limited to complimentary activities such as football, rugby, Greater Shepparton City Ongoing
major events at cricket and netball. Events outside of this scope should be catered for at multi use Council
the Reserve venues such as the Showgrounds.
Note:
Permanent fencing to incorporate the playground / park area into the Reserve is not included as an action due to the value placed on it by the general
community
The Guide Hall will not be demolished as it is subject to a Heritage overlay.
Administrative space for Associations eg AFL Goulburn Murray is not recommended as they are already accommodated at another site.
Cricket nets have not been included as they have been constructed at the school, however, the Regional Cricket Hub Feasibility project may make
recommendations about cricket nets across the municipality.
20Appendices
21Appendix A
Aerial Photo of Deakin Reserve
22Appendix B
Deakin Reserve Building Audit 2017
Provided as a separate attachment
23Appendix C
Status Update about the Recommendations from the 1999 Deakin Reserve Master Plan
The items identified in orange remain relevant and have been considered as part of developing the Future Directions Plan.
Priorities Details Status Comments
1.1. Improved Playing Surface
Increased flood lighting To spread the work load on the playing surface. Complete The oval has 100 lux, 200 lux and 500
lux options from the four lighting
towers.
Improved turf No extension to the size of the playing surface is proposed Incomplete To be considered as part of the Future
coverage, drainage, however expert advice is to be sought about the Directions Plan.
irrigation and water redevelopment of the playing surface turf, soil types,
supply systems improvements to ground drainage and irrigation.
Cricket wicket upgrade The cricket wicket area is to be redeveloped and reduced in Partially complete Upgrades to the wicket occurred in
size. 2009 and 2014, however the wicket has
never been reduced in size. Reducing
the wicket size appears to no longer be
an issue for the clubs.
Changes to A more professional and controlled approach to the Ongoing St Brendan’s Cricket Club retained
maintenance and maintenance of the playing surface and cricket wicket will be responsibility for maintaining the
management practices. required if capital funds are expended to improve the playing wicket.
surface and cricket wicket area.
Development of An alternative football training facility is to be developed at Complete An alternative venue has been created
alternative training the Shepparton Sports Precinct to alleviate over use of at Vibert Reserve. McGuire Oval has had
venue Deakin Reserve. 100 lux lighting installed and the playing
surface has been improved.
24Priorities Details Status Comments
1.2. Improved Spectator Facilities
New western crowd All shelters on the western and southwest boundaries are to Complete 2012 works undertaken.
shelter be removed and replaced by a terraced Crowd Shelter to be
known as the Western Crowd Shelter.
Upgraded Shepparton The Shepparton United Football Club shelter will be replaced Complete
United shelter to same standard and design of new Western Crowd Shelter,
and will accommodate seated spectator viewing south wards
to the playing arena (facing south) and seated spectator
viewing north wards to the proposed new netball court
(facing north).
Relocation of existing Relocate old shelters to other recreation reserves in the Incomplete The viability of implementing this action
shelters municipality. is unclear.
Improved Spectator All seats at the reserve will have backrests, with the front Complete 2015 works undertaken.
Seating two rows of the Western Crowd Shelter to be good quality
bucket seats. Areas currently known as the Shepparton
Football Club Crowd Shelter and the Shepparton United
Crowd Shelter will have full bucket seating.
Sealing under spectator All areas of high spectator use and heavy foot traffic will be Complete 2002 works undertaken.
areas sealed. This will include all areas from the Shepparton
United Football Club rooms to the western end of the
Shepparton Football Club rooms and under the proposed
Western Crowd Shelter
1.3. Increasing Useable and Community Space
New public open The south-western corner of the reserve will become a small Partially complete The Public Open Space in the south-
spaces and lawn areas area of public open space and include green lawns, a small western corner has been developed
playground and tree planting. Other green open space areas into a small park area with playground,
are proposed along the eastern boundary and fence line and grass, trees and drinking fountain.
possibly between the Grandstand, Brick Public Toilets,
Shepparton United clubrooms and the Shepparton United
Crowd Shelter
25Priorities Details Status Comments
Retaining walls and A combination of grassed banks and retaining walls will be Incomplete To be considered as part of the Future
grassed banks used around the reserve increase the useable area of the Directions Plan.
reserve and improve its general maintenance and
appearance.
Upgraded south The main entrance gates will no longer be required as a Complete
western entry gates functional asset of the reserve, and the area where they are
(main brick entry gates) currently located will become public open space.
Providing useable The key feature of the redevelopment of Deakin Reserve will Partially Development of the playground and
public open space - be the greening up of the facility and making it a more completed. surrounds in the south western corner
"The Greening of useable and accessible public open space. has been a significant change.
Deakin Reserve”
1.4. Rationalising Car Parking and Access Roads
Maximising external car It is proposed that parking around the playing arena will Incomplete To be considered as part of the Future
parking eventually cease as improvements to permanent spectator Directions Plan.
amenities evolve.
Isolating Social Club To maximise the security of the reserve and protect the Incomplete No longer considered to be relevant.
facilities and parking public infrastructure to be developed, it is proposed that new
areas reserve fences and boundaries will exclude the social rooms
and parking areas of the Shepparton and Shepparton United
Clubs. It is proposed that the two car parking areas adjoining
each Clubroom be formalised and sealed.
1.5. Upgrading and Improving Infrastructure
Guide Hall - Upgrade of It is proposed to improve the appearance of the guide hall Partially complete The guide hall has received some
Appearance and blend it into the landscaping of the reserve. This will maintenance with a new roof and new
require new fencing and appropriate treatment to the steep boundary fencing.
banks at the interface between the reserve and guide hall.
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